As fall harvest approaches, ensuring that combines are in optimal condition is essential for limiting downtime and completing your harvest efficiently.
Jerrad Bourne, business development manager, Ziegler Ag Equipment, has several tips for farmers to prepare their combines for the fall harvest crunch. Ziegler Ag is an equipment dealer serving growers across Iowa, Minnesota, and Missouri.
Bourne says it is important farmers start with a thorough visual inspection of the combine and its various moving components. Since many farmers are already familiar with their machines, they can identify key wear points and potential problems before a breakdown.
Bourne offers the following checklist for the initial inspection:
- Gearboxes: Check for dirt and dust buildup, which could indicate a leak. A leak can stem from a loose bolt or failing seal, or it could suggest the need for a full replacement.
- Feeder house chains, concaves, and sieves: Look for any rock damage, misaligned, bent, or broken parts.
- Hydraulic fittings and hoses: Inspect for leaks, wear, or cracking due to aging.
- Visible bearings: Examine for signs of play or damage.
Bourne adds that farmers who don’t have time to complete these inspections themselves can lean on services from the local equipment dealer, like Ziegler Ag’s preventative maintenance inspections. Dealer technicians are trained to complete thorough diagnostics and provide the farmer with a list of necessary repairs and estimated costs. Bourne notes that it is also beneficial to conduct similar inspections post-harvest.
Beyond the mechanical aspects of the combine itself, technology workups are also essential, Bourne says.
Combines today are equipped with GPS and yield monitors, and newer models automate many functions such as header height and some of the adjustments within the threshing and separation modules.
Bourne recommends downloading and installing the latest software updates before heading to the field to ensure systems are functioning properly and automation features are working smoothly. Ensure yield monitors are properly calibrated before heading to the field, as well. Testing various components in your farm shop helps avoid issues on the first day of harvest.
Should problems arise, local dealerships and manufacturers offer phone support to resolve most technology-related issues.
Equally important to a successful harvest is the condition of the combine head, the first point of contact for bringing crops into the machine. A pre-season visual inspection of corn and grain heads is necessary. Key areas to check include:
- Chains: Ensure they are tight.
- Gearboxes: Inspect for leaks.
- Bearings: Confirm they are tight and functioning smoothly.
- Sickle sections and guards: Check for straightness and sharpness.
- Belt tensioners: Ensure they are snug and operating properly.
Corn head stalk rolls and chains: Check for smooth operation and proper alignment.
Bourne also advises stocking up on commonly needed parts like sensors, which can save time and prevent frustrating delays during harvest. A quick check with the local service representative or the machine’s owner’s manual can provide a list of useful parts to have on hand.
If breakdowns occur, Bourne says farmers should contact their local equipment dealer, as most will offer 24/7 phone support and remote troubleshooting. That way a technician can troubleshoot issues, arrange repairs, and keep farmers updated via text or email, ensuring maximum uptime during harvest.
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